London 
Celebrate the festive season with family and friends in London, Ontario. From twinkling lights to outdoor adventures and delicious dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on December 25 and 26.
Credit: City of London
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Visit Victoria Park
Experience the magic of Victoria Park, transformed into a Winter Wonderland during the holiday season. The park’s sparkling lights are on nightly from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, offering a serene and festive atmosphere. Stroll through the park to soak in the charm and create lasting holiday memories.
The City Hall observation deck will be open for public viewing of the lights on Friday, December 26 from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Admire Christmas lights
London and the surrounding areas offer spectacular light displays to brighten your holidays. Drive through the 2.5-kilometre Fanshawe Conservation Area display (Open Dec 25 & 26) or explore the enchanting Lights On Stratford festival (open Dec 26) with interactive installations. Other must-see displays include the Winter Lights Display at St. Marys, Amherstburg River Lights, Simcoe Christmas Panorama, and LaSalle Civic Centre’s holiday wonderland.
Want more? Check out these spectacularly lit places in Ontario.
See a Movie
Relax with a holiday film at Hyland Cinema, Cineplex, or Landmark Cinemas. Whether it’s a family favourite or the latest blockbuster, movies are a cozy way to spend time together during the festive season. Watch a movie at Cineplex and Landmark Cinemas.
Movies released/releasing include:
- Avatar: Fire and Ash
- Anaconda (Releasing Dec 25)
- Song Sung Blue (Releasing Dec 25)
- The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
- The Housemaid
- Five Nights at Freddy’s 2
- David
- Zootopia 2
- Wicked: For Good
Christmas Brunch/Dinner
A few options:
- The Restaurant at The Bruce
- Southside Grill
- Four Points by Sheraton London
- Moxies Restaurant
- Elm Hurst Inn & Spa
- Gnosh Dining
- Taverna 1331
- The KEG Steakhouse
- State & Main
- David’s Bistro
- Sunset Grill
- Blackfriars Bistro
- Plant Matter Bistro
- Earls Restaurant
- Chop Steakhouse & Bar
- McCabe’s Pub & Grill
- Papi’s
- Cintro On Wellington
- Pasto’s Grill
- Top Of The Fair Restaurant
Go Outdoors
Enjoy winter fun at outdoor skating rinks like Storybook Gardens (closed Dec 25) and Victoria Park (weather permitting). Glide along the skate trail at Storybook Gardens. Victoria Park outdoor skating rink will be open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM. You can check the rink status by calling 519-661-4529. The dates for 2025/26 season is TBA.
For adventure seekers, cross-country skiing on local trails provides a great way to stay active and appreciate the winter landscape.
Go Winter Walking
Discover the beauty of Southwest Ontario with scenic winter hikes. Trails like Fanshawe Lake, Westminster Ponds, and the Thames Valley Trail offer breathtaking views and serene environments. Ensure you check the weather and trail conditions before heading out to fully enjoy the experience.
25 Fabulous Scenic Lookouts to Visit in Ontario
Plan a trip to a nearby Provincial Park
Enjoy the outdoors with a visit to a provincial park for snowshoeing, hiking, or tobogganing. Parks like Pinery offer picturesque settings and exciting activities to make your holidays even more special.
25 Ontario Provincial Parks to Visit During Winter in Ontario
Geocaching
Turn your holiday into an adventure with geocaching. Use a mobile app or GPS to discover hidden treasures throughout the region. This activity combines exploration, exercise, and fun, making it perfect for all ages.
Go Bird Watching
Spot popular winter birds and observe how wildlife adapts to the cold. Visit local birding areas with a bird ID app for an interactive experience. Birding offers a chance to connect with nature and appreciate its quiet beauty during the holidays.
Connect with nature by participating in an unofficial Christmas Day bird count. Stroll through local birding areas or count the birds visiting your feeder at home. Download a bird ID app to identify species and enjoy a peaceful morning immersed in winter’s natural beauty.
More Fun Things to Do
Explore more family-friendly activities during the winter break. From concerts to outdoor adventures, London offers countless ways to make the most of your Christmas and Boxing Day celebrations!
